RaceNature Castelo de Vide 2026: programme, routes and guide
RaceNature Castelo de Vide runs from 16 to 18 October 2026, with a prologue and two MTB stages navigated exclusively by GPS.
The essentials
Race office opens at 15:00 on Friday, 16 October, in Parque João José da Luz, and the prologue runs from 19:00 to 20:30. Saturday and Sunday stages start from the same park at 09:00. Published distances are 2 km with 90 m D+ for the prologue, 71.5 km with 1,990 m D+ for stage 1, and 60.2 km with 1,050 m D+ for stage 2.
How RaceNature Castelo de Vide works
The third edition uses GPS-only navigation, with no course markings on the ground. Each rider, competing solo or as a pair, must independently follow the compulsory route supplied by the organiser.
The organiser describes demanding climbs, technical descents and rural tracks. Published figures are 2 km with 90 m D+ for the prologue, 71.5 km with 1,990 m D+ for stage 1, and 60.2 km with 1,050 m D+ for stage 2.
- Prologue: Friday, 2 km and 90 m D+.
- Stage 1: Saturday, 71.5 km and 1,990 m D+.
- Stage 2: Sunday, 60.2 km and 1,050 m D+.
Programme and places to follow the race
Parque João José da Luz hosts race office, the prologue, both stage starts, the announced lunches and the podium ceremony. For companions, it is the clearest reference point published by the organiser.
No designated spectator areas along the courses have been published. Do not enter reserved tracks or choose a remote viewpoint without confirming access; use organiser updates for any restrictions.
- Friday: race office 15:00–19:00 and prologue 19:00–20:30.
- Saturday: start boxes open at 08:00, stage 1 starts at 09:00 and lunch begins at 12:30.
- Sunday: start boxes open at 08:00, stage 2 starts at 09:00, lunch at 12:30 and podium ceremony at 14:00.
Turn RaceNature into a weekend in Castelo de Vide
Anyone accompanying a rider can use quieter periods to visit Fonte da Vila, the Jewish Quarter, the former Synagogue, the castle and the historic streets. Much of this can be explored on foot.
Casa da Rua Nova is in the Jewish Quarter, so guests can return to their accommodation without relying on the car for the historic centre. For a race weekend, confirm specific needs such as bike storage, breakfast timing or early-start logistics directly with the accommodation.
What to confirm before travelling
Before travelling, check the official page again for GPS files, regulations, current registration price and conditions, assistance rules and any technical or weather-related changes.
The published programme places the event hub in Parque João José da Luz and showers at the indoor municipal pool. It does not publish a special parking or road-closure plan, or official spectator points along the stages.
Frequently asked questions
When and where does RaceNature 2026 start?
Race office opens at 15:00 on Friday, 16 October, in Parque João José da Luz. The prologue starts at 19:00; Saturday and Sunday stages start from the same park at 09:00.
What are the distances and elevation gains?
The prologue is 2 km with 90 m D+, stage 1 is 71.5 km with 1,990 m D+, and stage 2 is 60.2 km with 1,050 m D+.
Is the route marked on the ground?
No. The organiser specifies GPS-only navigation with no course markings, for riders competing solo or in pairs.
Can I follow RaceNature without competing?
Parque João José da Luz is the published location for the prologue, starts and podium. Spectator areas on the courses are not listed, so confirm access with the organiser.
Stay in central Castelo de Vide for RaceNature
Use the Jewish Quarter as a base for the race weekend and explore the historic centre on foot between stages.
Apartments for your stay
